Cracked heels (also sometimes called ‘heel fissures’) are a common condition where cracks form in the skin around the rim of the heel. The cracks are usually easy to see on inspection of the heel. The condition is more serious if the skin (callus) is thick and the cracks are deep.

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Complications can include bleeding and infection. 

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Cracked heels can be painful and look quite unpleasant and embarrassing especially in the summer when feet are in more revealing footwear.

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People with cracked heels often have dry skin which may predispose them to this condition. Other factors that can contribute to cracked heels include:

• Mechanical pressures in the heel area (eg, from prolonged standing (particularly on hard floors), or being overweight)

• Open-back shoes (this can allow sideways expansion of the heel, which puts increased pressure on any cracks in the skin)

• Skin conditions (such as psoriasis and eczema)

• Exposure to chemicals or metal poisoning

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The Podiatrist will remove dead skin which will leave you with smooth heels. We apply natural resin ointment to moisturise the afflicted area. An assessment will be done to work out the causes of the dry skin and then a treatment plan will be implemented for future prevention.